In a 4-quart saucepan or pot bring the first 6 ingredients to a simmer.,Stir slowly to dissolve the sugar in the liquid.,Add the remaining ingredients except the lemon juice and the cheese.,When the liquid comes to a boil, adjust the heat and simmer for about 20 minutes to marry the flavors and soften the fruit.,Turn off the heat then stir in the lemon juice.,With a slotted spoon remove the fruit to a bowl.,Bring the remaining syrup to a simmer and reduce until lightly thickened or when the bubbles formed on the top become small.,______,The compote can be held in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.,Serve the compote at room temperature with the cheese.